I understand this point of view, and it goes to show the Coen Brothers and Isaac's wonderful work, but I think you should revisit the multiple interpretations of this ballad as there are countless beautiful renditions. I couldn't say one is best, but I would recommend Joan Baez (which is a different arrangement) and the Bothy Band... I am still going through the different versions and I think it is important to do so like any good historian!

Yes very much. I do like the solo he does in The Death Of Queen Jane in the recording tho, and the recording of Shoals of Herring is not even close to as good as it is in the movie.

I think we're meant to see it as... Llewyn is basically the opposite of Troy Nelson, he's soulful and intense where Troy is upbeat and uncomplicated which at this point is what sells. Not sure if this actually maps onto the folk scene of the time but I think the movie is setting up a dichotomy there and Llewyn's just on the wrong side of it, despite his incredibly obvious talent

@@riabouchinska thanks RJ. It's also crucial to Llewyn's character where, following this rejection, he offers him a part in an ensemble but Llewyn turns it down. Who knows, maybe the guy would have changed his mind later.